What they did was essentialy pointless. Why its even reported is a mystery as it is exactly the kind of thing these wackos do for attention. I am sure they are going to feed it well too right? hahah why would a circus starve the animal its in there best interest too keep it healthy. They are not cheap animals to aquire and im sure it draws more children to the circus.

the reason you would starve a performing animal (much like an elephant) is if they're hungry they are more likely to respond to treats. as for the beatings, well, it probably works for a while and it's easier than nonviolently training the animal.also: the circus, in general, is bad, mkay?

There has been no proof that any circus in existance today beats their elephants. That is unless you count a mysterious bloodspot that disappeared magically after a photo was taken by an animal rights group.